It’s our Parade: Dogs invited to walk along
By Gina Spadafori
June 28, 2009
Dr. Becker and I have been absolutely thrilled that Parade magazine likes our work so much they keep asking for more articles. In today’s edition, we have tips for people who want their pets to walk nicely on a leash — and we tap some top experts to help:
All dogs may go to heaven, but it’s a sure bet that only the ones who walk calmly on a leash get to go to many places here on Earth.
It’s natural for dogs to pull, says San Diego dog trainer Liz Palika, but this can be dangerous for both pet and owner: “Pulling on the leash can injure the dog, hurting his neck, shoulder, front legs, and more.” And people have suffered broken bones and strained muscles trying to control untrained dogs.
So what should you do? Traditionally, training a dog to walk on a loose leash required a show of strength, perfect timing, and a willingness to teach the dog that the consequence of pulling was pain. Today, trends in training emphasize a less physical, more dog-friendly approach that encourages and rewards cooperation.
Read the rest. We have another article in the hands of the editors, but it’s not yet scheduled to run. I’ll let you know when it has a run date.
Well-done article. I read it in the newsprint itself. I will wait for the next one.
I am trying to walk my cat with a leash and harness and wishing it was as easy as walking with a canine kid.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — June 28, 2009 @ 10:51 pm